Connector including a body with two windows and a swivel hook

ABSTRACT

A connector including a body with two windows and a swivel hook is provided. The swivel hook is interconnected to the body and is rotatable around a longitudinal axis. The body generally includes a first loop connected to a second loop. The first loop has a first window that is separated from a second window of the second loop by a crossmember. In one embodiment, the crossmember is generally linear. The crossmember may be oriented approximately perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. A strap may be connected to the crossmember.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This U.S. Non-Provisional Patent Application is a continuation-in-partof U.S. Design Patent Application Serial No. 29/730,649, filed Apr. 7,2020, and claims the benefit of priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) ofU.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 63/162,949, filed Mar. 18,2021, the entire disclosure of each of which is hereby incorporated byreference.

FIELD

This disclosure is related to connectors for straps. More specificallythis disclosure relates to a connector including a body with two windowsand a swivel hook.

BACKGROUND

Swivel connectors with a swivel hook are used to connect straps of bags,satchels, and the like to rings and other items. In known swivelconnectors, the swivel hook rotates around an axle associated with aconnector body. The connector body includes a single window toaccommodate a strap which is connected to a bar of the connector body.

One drawback of known swivel connectors is that the single windowthrough the connector body allows the strap to become displaced aboutthe strap connection. More specifically, the connector body does notprevent lateral movement of the strap with respect to the connectorbody. This displacement and lateral movement may cause the strap tobunch up and may loosen or damage the strap through repeated bunchingand stretching. Additionally, when the strap is bunched up, the strapdoes not lie flat and can irritate the skin of a user. Moreover, thebunching, folding, and movement of the strap can cause increased wear onthe strap, for example, as the sides of the strap are constantlyexposed.

Accordingly, there is a need for a connector configured to preventinadvertent or unintended movement of a strap.

SUMMARY

The connector of the present disclosure solves the problems of knownswivel connectors by providing a swivel hook attached to a body havingtwo windows separated by a crossmember. The strap connects to thecrossmember and extends through one or both windows. Sidewalls of thewindows prevent lateral movement of the strap, preventing the problemsdiscussed above by securing the strap in a preferred alignment withrespect to the body.

One aspect of the present invention is a connector with a body connectedto a swivel hook. The body includes a first portion or loop and a secondportion or loop. The loops are connected on a shared side. Theconnection of the two loops at the shared side forms a crossmember. Astrap can be connected to the crossmember. The crossmember and two loopsdefine two windows through the body.

The swivel hook is connected to the second loop of the body. Optionally,the swivel hook can rotate relative to the body.

In one embodiment, an axle extends from the second loop. The swivel hookis interconnected to the axle. In one embodiment, the swivel hook canrotate around a longitudinal axis of the axle.

Alternatively, in another embodiment, an axle extends from the swivelhook. In this embodiment, the body is interconnected to the axle. In oneembodiment, the body can rotate around a longitudinal axis of the axle.Optionally the axle extends at least partially through the second loop.In one embodiment, the second loop includes a connection piece thatinterconnects the axle from the swivel hook to the body. In oneembodiment, the axle includes a flange which prevents the axle frommoving axially through the connection piece.

In alternative embodiments, the swivel hook may be connected to thesecond loop without using an axle. For instance, the swivel hook may beconnected to the second loop by a strap, a metal bracket, a ball and ahitch, a notch and a groove, a button, or other rotatable connectionmethods known in the art.

The swivel hook includes a hook body, a hook section, and a pinpivotally connecting the hook body to the hook section. The hook bodyhas a latch. In a first position, an end of the latch is engaged with anend of the hook section. While the latch and hook section are inengagement with one another, a closed loop is formed by the swivel hook.In a second position, the latch is pivoted inwardly toward the hooksection so that the end of the latch is no longer in engagement with theend of the hook section. In this second position, the loop is open,allowing the hook to engage an article, such as a ring or loop.

Another aspect of the disclosure is a swivel connector for a strap,comprising: (1) a swivel hook having a hook section and a hook body witha latch, the latch being pivotably attached to the hook section by apin; and (2) a body rotatably connected to the swivel hook, the bodyhaving a first portion with a first window and second portion with asecond window, the first window spaced from the second window by acrossmember.

In one embodiment the swivel hook is interconnected to the body by anaxle. Optionally, the axle is fixed to the swivel hook and rotatablerelative to the body. Alternatively, the axle is fixed to the body androtatable relative to the swivel hook.

In one embodiment, the axle extends through an aperture through an endof the second portion. Optionally, the axle includes a flange which ispositioned within the second window.

Alternatively, the axle is fixedly secured to an end of the secondportion and the swivel hook is rotatably engaged with a flange of theaxle.

In one embodiment, the crossmember is generally linear. Optionally, thecrossmember is approximately perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of theswivel connector. The axle is optionally approximately concentricallyaligned with the longitudinal axis.

In one embodiment, a strap is interconnected to the crossmember.

In example embodiments, a swivel connector for a strap includes a swivelhook having a hook section and a hook body with a latch, the latch beingpivotably attached to the hook section via a pin. The swivel connectorincludes an axle extending from the swivel hook and including a flangespaced from the swivel hook.

The swivel connector includes a body rotatably connected to the swivelhook by the axle. The body includes a first loop including a firstwindow, a second loop including a second window, and a crossmemberseparating the first window and the second window. The crossmember formsa first portion of the first loop and a second portion of the secondloop. The first window and the second window are operable to receive thestrap and maintain an alignment between the strap and a longitudinalaxis of the swivel connector.

In embodiments, the crossmember forms a first portion of the first loopand the second loop. The strap at least partially wraps around thecrossmember when inserted into the first loop and the second loop. Inembodiments, the axle extends through an aperture through an end of thesecond loop such that the flange is positioned within the second window.The flange has a flange diameter that is greater than an interiordiameter of the aperture. Optionally, the aperture is positioned in theend of the second loop at a location furthest spaced opposite thecrossmember across the second window. In embodiments, the axle isrotatably retained within the aperture. Optionally, the swivel hook isrotatably engaged with the body.

In embodiments, the crossmember is generally linear and is approximatelyperpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the swivel connector.Optionally, the axle is approximately concentrically aligned with thelongitudinal axis.

In embodiments, the first window and the second window are eachapproximately oval-shaped. The first window includes a first major axisand a first minor axis. The second window includes a second major axisand a second minor axis. Optionally, the first minor axis and the secondminor axis are approximately parallel. Optionally, the longitudinalaxis, the first minor axis of the first window, and the second minoraxis of the second window are approximately concentrically aligned.

Alternatively or in addition, the first length of the first window andthe second length of the second window are approximately equal.Optionally, the first major axis and the second major axis areapproximately parallel.

In embodiments, the first window and the second window are eachapproximately rectangular. The first window includes a first length anda first width. The second window includes a second length and a secondwidth. Optionally, the first length of the first window and the secondlength of the second window are approximately equal.

In embodiments, the first window is approximately rectangular, andsecond window is approximately semi-elliptical. In embodiments, athickness or diameter of the first loop is approximately the same as athickness of diameter of the second loop.

In embodiments, the swivel connector includes a connection piecesubstantially centered around the longitudinal axis on the end of thesecond loop. The connection piece extends above and below a planedefined by the second loop. The swivel connector includes a boreextending through the connection piece. The bore extends along thelongitudinal axis approximately perpendicular to the crossmember.

In embodiments, the swivel hook includes a hook body defining a latchand having a base with a recess and a first aperture extending throughthe base. The swivel hook includes a hook section that is fixed to theaxle. The hook section has an insert positioned in the recess of thehook body and with a second aperture aligned with the first aperture ofthe base such that the hook body is pivotable relative to the hooksection. The hook section extends away from the axle and has anapproximately 180 degree bend. The latch has a first closed position inwhich an end of the latch is positioned proximate to an end of the hooksection. The latch has a second open position in which the end of thelatch is spaced from the end of the hook section.

In example embodiments, a strap and connector assembly includes a strapand at least one swivel connector. The at least one swivel connectorincludes a swivel hook having a hook section and a hook body with alatch. The latch is pivotably attached to the hook section. In someexample embodiments, the latch is pivotably attached to the hook sectionvia a pin.

The at least one swivel connector includes an axle extending from theswivel hook and with a flange spaced from the swivel hook. The at leastone swivel connector includes a body rotatably connected to the swivelhook by the axle. The body includes a first loop with a first windowwith a first entrance and a first exit. The body includes a second loopincluding a second window with a second entrance and a second exit. Thebody includes a crossmember separating the first window and the secondwindow. The crossmember forms a first portion of the first loop and asecond portion of the second loop. The first window and the secondwindow are operable to receive the strap and maintain an alignmentbetween the strap and a longitudinal axis of the swivel connector.

In embodiments, the second loop is operable to receive the strap throughthe second entrance of the second window. The second loop is operable toprovide the strap through the second exit of the second window oppositethe second entrance. The strap is at least partially wrapped around thecrossmember and extends in approximately the same direction beforeentering the second entrance of the second window and after exiting thesecond exit of the second window.

In embodiments, the strap forms a strap bend around the crossmember. Thestrap bend defines a first portion of the strap on a first side of thestrap bend which extends from the second entrance of the second windowand a second portion of the strap on a second side of the strap bendwhich extends from the second exit of the second window.

The first loop is operable to receive the first portion of the strapthrough the first entrance of the first window. The first loop isoperable to provide the first portion of the strap through the firstexit of the first window opposite the first entrance. A first surface ofthe first portion of the strap is proximate to a second surface of thesecond portion of the strap after the first portion of the strap isprovided through the first exit of the first window. The first portionof the strap and the second portion of the strap extends in the samedirection before the first portion of the strap enters the firstentrance of the first window and after the first portion of the strapexits the first exit of the first window.

In example embodiments, a swivel connector includes a body with a firstloop and a second loop. The first loop is connected to the second loopby a crossmember that is generally linear. The first loop has a firstwindow and the second loop has a second window separated from the firstwindow by the crossmember. An end of the second loop is approximatelyparallel to the crossmember. The crossmember forms a first portion ofthe first loop and the second loop. The first loop is substantiallycoplanar with the second loop. The swivel connector includes a latchingdevice coupled to the second loop.

The first window and the second window are operable to receive a strapand maintain an alignment between the strap and a longitudinal axisdefined by the latching device. The strap at least partially wrapsaround the crossmember when inserted into the first loop and the secondloop. Both ends of the strap extend in the same direction after thestrap at least partially wraps around the crossmember.

The Summary is neither intended nor should it be construed as beingrepresentative of the full extent and scope of the present disclosure.The present disclosure is set forth in various levels of detail in theSummary as well as in the attached drawings and the Detailed Descriptionand no limitation as to the scope of the present disclosure is intendedby either the inclusion or non-inclusion of elements, components, etc.in this Summary. Additional aspects of the present disclosure willbecome more clear from the Detailed Description, particularly when takentogether with the drawings.

The phrases “at least one,” “one or more,” and “and/or,” as used herein,are open-ended expressions that are both conjunctive and disjunctive inoperation. For example, each of the expressions “at least one of A, Band C,” “at least one of A, B, or C,” “one or more of A, B, and C,” “oneor more of A, B, or C,” and “A, B, and/or C” means A alone, B alone, Calone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, or A, B andC together.

The term “a” or “an” entity, as used herein, refers to one or more ofthat entity. As such, the terms “a” (or “an”), “one or more” and “atleast one” can be used interchangeably herein.

Unless otherwise indicated, all numbers expressing quantities,dimensions, conditions, ratios, ranges, and so forth used in thespecification and claims are to be understood as being modified in allinstances by the term “about” or “approximately”. Accordingly, unlessotherwise indicated, all numbers expressing quantities, dimensions,conditions, ratios, ranges, and so forth used in the specification andclaims may be increased or decreased by approximately 5% to achievesatisfactory results. Additionally, where the meaning of the terms“about” or “approximately” as used herein would not otherwise beapparent to one of ordinary skill in the art, the terms “about” and“approximately” should be interpreted as meaning within plus or minus 5%of the stated value.

All ranges described herein may be reduced to any sub-range or portionof the range, or to any value within the range without deviating fromthe invention. For example, the range “5 to 55” includes, but is notlimited to, the sub-ranges “5 to 20” as well as “17 to 54.”

The use of “including,” “comprising,” or “having” and variations thereofherein is meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalentsthereof as well as additional items. Accordingly, the terms “including,”“comprising,” or “having” and variations thereof can be usedinterchangeably herein.

It shall be understood that the term “means” as used herein shall begiven its broadest possible interpretation in accordance with 35 U.S.C.,Section 112(f). Accordingly, a claim incorporating the term “means”shall cover all structures, materials, or acts set forth herein, and allof the equivalents thereof. Further, the structures, materials, or actsand the equivalents thereof shall include all those described in theSummary, Brief Description of the Drawings, Detailed Description,Abstract, and Claims themselves.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute apart of the specification, illustrate embodiments of the disclosedsystem and together with the general description of the disclosure givenabove and the detailed description of the drawings given below, serve toexplain the principles of the disclosed system(s) and device(s).

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a prior art swivel connector with astrap interconnected to a body of the swivel connector;

FIG. 2 is a front perspective view of a connector according to oneembodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 3 is a front elevation view of the connector of FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the connector of FIG. 2 in a position ofuse with a strap;

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a pair of connectors of FIG. 2 in aposition of use with a strap;

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of another embodiment of a connector of thepresent disclosure; and

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of yet another embodiment of a connector ofthe present disclosure.

The drawings are not necessarily (but may be) to scale. In certaininstances, details that are not necessary for an understanding of thedisclosure or that render other details difficult to perceive may havebeen omitted. It should be understood, of course, that the disclosure isnot necessarily limited to the embodiments illustrated herein. As willbe appreciated, other embodiments are possible using, alone or incombination, one or more of the features set forth above or describedbelow. For example, it is contemplated that various features and devicesshown and/or described with respect to one embodiment may be combinedwith or substituted for features or devices of other embodimentsregardless of whether or not such a combination or substitution isspecifically shown or described herein.

The following is a listing of components according to variousembodiments of the present disclosure, and as shown in the drawings:

Number Component  2 Swivel connector  4 Swivel hook  6 Connector body  8Bar 10 Window 12 Strap 12A First portion of strap 12B Second portion ofstrap 12C Strap bend 12D First surface of first portion of strap 12ESecond surface of second portion of strap 14A, 14B, 14C Connector 16Longitudinal axis 18 Swivel hook 20 Hook body 22 Hook section 24 Base 26Latch 28 Second end of latch 30 First engagement feature of latch 32Recess 34 Insert 36 Bore 38 End of hook section 40 Angled edge of hookend 44 Second engagement feature 46 Pin 48 Flange 50 Connection piece 52Axle 54 Aperture 56A, 56B, 56C Body 58 First loop (or first portion ofthe body) 60 First window 61A First window entrance 61B First windowexit 62 First window sidewalls 64 First loop exterior side 65A Firstmajor axis 65B First minor axis 66 First loop end 68 Second loop (orsecond portion of the body) 70 Second window 71A Second window entrance71B Second window exit 72 Second window sidewalls 74 Second loopexterior side 75A Second major axis 75B Second minor axis 76 Second loopend 78 Crossmember 80 Arcuate side 82 Strap and connector assembly 84Adjustment buckle

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring now to FIG. 1, a known swivel connector 2 is illustrated. Theswivel connector includes a swivel hook 4 rotatably connected to aconnector body 6. The connector body is formed from a wire or a bar 8that defines a loop with a single window 10. A strap 12 is connected tobar. The strap should be positioned opposite to the swivel hook.However, as shown in FIG. 1, the strap 12 has moved laterally relativeto the swivel hook 4 away from its intended position. Because of thismovement, the material of the strap is bunched and does not lie flat.

Referring now to FIGS. 2-5, one embodiment of a connector 14A of thepresent disclosure is generally illustrated. The connector 14A includesa snap hook or swivel hook 18 and a body 56A. In one embodiment, theswivel hook 18 is rotatably interconnected to the body 56A.Alternatively, the swivel hook 18 and body 56A are interconnectedtogether in an orientation that is fixed.

The body 56A generally includes a first portion or loop 58 connected toa second portion or loop 68. The first loop 58 includes a first window60 with a first entrance 61A and a first exit 61B opposite the firstentrance 61A. The second loop 68 includes a second window 70 with asecond entrance 71A and a second exit 71B opposite the second entrance71A. The first and second entrances 61A, 71A may be described as beingon a first side of the body 56A. Similarly, the first and second exits61B, 71B may be described as being on a second side of the body that isopposite to the first side of the body.

The first window 60 is separated from the second window 70 by acrossmember 78. The crossmember 78 is generally linear and extendsapproximately perpendicular to a longitudinal axis 16 of the connector14A. In some embodiments, the crossmember 78 is defined by theconnection of the first and second loops on a shared side, such that thecrossmember forms a first portion of the first loop and a second portionof the second loop. In these embodiments, the loops 58, 68 are separatecomponents which are attached together (e.g., via welding, an epoxy oradhesive, fasteners, or the like). It is noted the loops 58, 68 may beset at any angle relative to one another ranging from 0 degrees (e.g.,adjacent, with full overlapping of the windows 60, 70) to 180 degrees(e.g., parallel, with no overlapping between the windows 60, 70). Forexample, approximately 180 degrees is exemplarily illustrated in atleast FIGS. 2-7. In alternative embodiments, the crossmember 78 is aseparate piece of material attached to the body 56A that separates thefirst window 60 from the second window 70. In these embodiments, theloops 58, 68 are not standalone components which are affixed together,but instead are formed with the windows 60, 70 with the addition of thecrossmember 78 to the body 56A. In further embodiments, the body 56A andthe crossmember 78 are formed or fabricated as one integrated component.

A strap 12 can be connected to the crossmember 78 as generallyillustrated in FIG. 4. The strap 12 is a strip or piece of a flat,flexible piece of material. Any suitable material may be used to formthe strap, including one or more of a leather, a cloth, a rubber, or anyother flexible material.

As illustrated in FIG. 4, the strap 12 may include a first portion 12Aand a second portion 12B separated or defined by a strap bend 12C formedby at least partially wrapping the strap 12 over the crossmember 78. Itis noted the strap 12 extends approximately in the same direction beforeentering the second entrance 71A of the second window 70 and afterexiting the second exit 71B of the second window 70, such that the firstportion 12A and the second portion 12B of the strap 12 extend inapproximately the same direction.

The second loop 68 is operable to receive the strap 12 through thesecond entrance 71A of the second window 70 and operable to provide thestrap 12 through the second exit 71B of the second window 70. Here, thefirst portion 12A of the strap 12 is proximate to (e.g., leads to) thesecond entrance 71A of the second window 70, the second portion 12B ofthe strap 12 is proximate to (e.g., leads away from) the second exit 71Bof the second window 70, and the strap bend 12C is within the secondwindow 70.

The first loop 58 is operable to receive the first portion 12A of thestrap 12 through the first entrance 61A of the first window 60 and alsois operable to provide the first portion 12A of the strap 12 through thefirst exit 71B of the first window 60. A first surface 12D of the firstportion 12A of the strap 12 is proximate to a second surface 12E of thesecond portion 12B of the strap 12 after the first portion 12A of thestrap 12 is provided through the first exit 61B of the first window 60.The first portion 12A of the strap 12 and the second portion 12B of thestrap 12 extend in the same direction before the first portion 12A ofthe strap 12 enters the first entrance 61A of the first window 60 andafter the first portion 12A of the strap 12 exits the first exit 61B ofthe first window 60. In this regard, the strap 12 is aligned within thebody 56A with the swivel hook 18, and in kept in alignment with theswivel hook 18 by being passed through both windows 60, 70 (e.g., asopposed to shifting and bunching along one side of a single window, asillustrated in FIG. 1).

Interior sidewalls 62A, 62B and 72A, 72B of the first and second loops58, 68 prevent inadvertent or unintended movement of the strap laterallyrelative to the longitudinal axis 16 of the connector 14A. Morespecifically, the body 56A of the present disclosure keeps a strap 12connected to the crossmember 78 approximately centered relative to theswivel hook 18 as generally shown in FIG. 4.

The loops 58, 68 have sides 64A, 64B, 74A, 74B and ends 66, 76. Forexample, the sides 64A, 64B and 74A, 74B may be spaced apart by thewindows 60, 70. By way of another example, the ends 66, 76 may beoppositely disposed on the body 56A, such that end 66 is on the firstloop 58 and end 76 is on the second loop 68.

The first and second loops 58, 68 may have any predetermined size andshape. In one embodiment, the sides 64A, 64B, 74A, 74B are rounded orcurved and the ends 66, 76 are approximately linear as generallyillustrated in FIG. 3. In this configuration, the loops 58, 68 define abody 56A with a shape of a flattened figure eight, with at least onepoint on the sides 64A, 64B, 74A, 74B extending furthest outward or awayfrom the longitudinal axis 16 relative to other points on the arcuateshapes formed by the sides 64A, 64B, 74A, 74B. However, in otherembodiments the sides 64A, 64B, 74A, 74B of one or both loops aregenerally linear. Additionally, or alternatively, in one embodiment, atleast one of the loops 58, 68 has an end 66, 76 that is rounded orcurved. Other shapes of the first and second loops are contemplated.

In one non-limiting example, the loops 58, 68 and/or the windows 60, 70are each approximately oval-shaped. It is noted an oval shape may beconsidered a shape similar to a rectangle with rounded corners orarcuate sections that partially or fully form the sides 64A, 64B, 74A,74B, for purposes of the present disclosure. In addition, it is noted anoval shape may be considered a shape similar to an ellipse that includesarcuate sections that fully form the sides 64A, 64B, 74A, 74B and theends 66, 76, for purposes of the present disclosure. The first loop 58and/or the first window 60 may include a first major axis 65A and afirst minor axis 65B, and the second loop 68 and/or the second window 70may include a second major axis 75A and a second minor axis 75B.

In some embodiments, the first and second major axes are approximatelyparallel. Similarly, the first and second minor axes may beapproximately parallel. In one non-limiting example, the central axis ofthe swivel connector, the first minor axis of the first window, and thesecond minor axis of the second window are approximately concentricallyaligned. In another non-limiting example, the first major axis of thefirst window and the second major axis of the second window have lengthsthat are approximately equal.

In one embodiment, the loops 58 and/or 68 are formed of a roundmaterial, such as a wire or a rod. Accordingly, in one embodiment, across-section taken parallel to the longitudinal axis 16 of one or moreof the end 66 of the first loop 58 and the end 76 of the second loop 68has a shape that is circular or elliptical.

Alternatively, in another embodiment, the loops 58, 68 are formed of amaterial with sides that are generally planar, such as a bar.Accordingly, a cross-section of the ends 66, 76 taken parallel to thelongitudinal axis 16 may have a shape with at least one side that isplanar. For example, the cross-sectional shape may be square orrectangular.

The body 56A and the first and second loops 58, 68 can be formed of anymaterial that is generally rigid. The material can be a plastic, ametal, a wood, or a similar substantially rigid material.

In one embodiment, the first loop 58 and second loop 68 are generallycoplanar. Alternatively, the first loop 58 defines a first plane and thesecond loop 68 defines a second plane. In one embodiment, the firstplane is not parallel to the second plane.

The first loop 58 has a first size and the second loop 68 has a secondsize. The first size and the second size may be approximately the same.Alternatively, the first and second sizes may be different.

The first loop 58 has a first shape and the second loop 68 has a secondshape. In one embodiment, as generally illustrated in FIGS. 2-6, thefirst and second shapes are substantially the same. Alternatively, thefirst shape of the first loop 58 is different than the second shape ofthe second loop 68 as generally shown in FIG. 7.

The swivel hook 18 extends from the end 76 of the second loop 68. In oneembodiment, an axle 52 extends from the end 76 of the second loop 68.Specifically, the axle is fixedly interconnected to the second loop end.The swivel hook 18 is interconnected to the axle 52. In one embodiment,the swivel hook can rotate around the axle. Optionally, the axle 52 isaligned approximately concentrically with the longitudinal axis 16.

The axle 52 has an axle diameter. In one embodiment, an end of the axleincludes a head or flange 48. The flange 48 has a flange diameter.Optionally, the flange diameter is greater than the axle diameter. Inanother embodiment, the flange 48 is defined by a groove extending intothe axle 52, the groove extending around the circumference of the axle.Accordingly, the flange diameter may be approximately equal to the axlediameter.

It is noted the flange 48 may be fixedly attached to the axle 52.Alternatively, the flange may be replaced with a fastener (e.g., a nut,where the axle 52 is threaded, a swage nut, a threaded rivet operable tobe inserted into a threaded end of the axle 52, a cotter pin operable tofit within an aperture in the axle 52, or the like.

Alternatively, in another embodiment, the axle 52 is fixedly secured tothe swivel hook and extends from the swivel hook 18. In this embodiment,the end 76 of the second loop 68 is interconnected to the axle 52. Thebody 56A may be configured to rotate around the longitudinal axisdefined by the axle 52.

Optionally the axle 52 extends at least partially through the end 76 ofthe second loop 68. In one embodiment, the end 76 includes a bore oraperture 54 to receive the axle 52. In one non-limiting example, theaperture 54 may be positioned in the end 76 of the second loop 68 at alocation furthest spaced across the second window 70 from thecrossmember 78. The end 76 engages the flange 48 to prevent movement ofthe axle 52 away from the end 76.

It is noted the axle 52 may include a plastically or elasticallydeformable end that is insertable into the aperture 54. The deformableend may be operable to engage the aperture 54 and thus be self-securing,such that a securing device such as the flange 48 may not be necessary.

In one embodiment, the end 76 of the second loop 68 includes aconnection piece 50 positioned opposite from the crossmember 78. Theconnection piece 50 has a thickness that is greater than a diameter ofthe end 76 and/or the axle 52 in at least one dimension.

The aperture 54 can extend through the connection piece 50 approximatelyperpendicular to the crossmember 78. In one embodiment, the axle 52 isinserted through the aperture 54 and held in place by the flange 48 onthe end of the axle closest to the crossmember 78. The flange 48prevents axial movement of the axle 52 through the aperture 54 butallows the axle 52 to rotate within the aperture 54. It is noted,however, the end 76 may be of a diameter greater than a diameter of theaperture 54 (and the axle 52 within the aperture 54), such that theentire diameter of the aperture 54 (and thus the axle 52) is containedwithin the diameter of the end 76.

A swivel hook 18 is attached to an end of the axle 52 opposite theflange 48. Alternatively, the swivel hook 18 may connect to the secondloop 68 through any means that allow rotation between the swivel hook 18and the second loop 68. These include using a strap, a button, a metalbracket, a ball and hitch, a notch and groove, a flange, and any otherrotatable connection known in the art. The hook 18 generally includes ahook section 22 and a hook body 20.

The hook body 20 has a base 24 and a latch 26 that extends in adirection opposite the body 56A. The hook body 20 is pivotablyinterconnected to the hook section 22. In one embodiment, a bore 36extends through the base 24 and the hook section 22. A pin or rivet 46is positioned in the bore 36 to interconnect the hook section and thebase of the hook body 20.

Optionally, the base 24 of the hook body 20 includes a recess 32. Therecess 32 may be defined by two walls of the base 24. An insert 34 ofthe hook section is configured to fit within the recess 32 of the hookbody 20. Holes in the recess 32 and the insert 34 align to allow the pinor rivet 46 to pivotably secure the hook section 22 to the hook body 20.Alternatively, in another embodiment, the hook body 20 fits into arecess (not shown) of the hook section.

The latch 26 of the swivel hook 18 has two positions of use. In oneembodiment, the hook section 22 is immovably secured to the axle 52 andthe latch 26 is pivotable to a first, closed position in which it isengaged with the hook section 22 (as generally illustrated in FIG. 3).In a second, open position, the latch 26 is not engaged with the hooksection 22. In the open position, a gap or opening is formed between anend 28 of the latch and an end 38 of the hook section.

Optionally, the latch 26 is biased into the closed position. In someembodiments, a spring is arranged so that it biases the latch in theclosed position. In one embodiment, the spring creates a force on thebase of the hook body 20. This force biases the latch 26 to the closedposition. In this embodiment, a force is required to open the swivelhook 18 and the swivel hook will close itself when the opening force isno longer applied.

In one embodiment, the latch 26 ends in a second end 28. The second endmay have a first engagement feature 30.

The hook section 22 protrudes generally away from the axle 52 and thenhas a roughly 180-degree bend such that the end 38 of the hook sectionfaces generally towards the body 56A. In one embodiment, the end 38 ofthe hook section includes an angled edge 40. The angled edge 40 may havea second engagement feature 44 that corresponds to the first engagementfeature 30 on the latch 26 of the hook body 20.

The end of the hook section 22 is oriented such that when the latch 26is in the closed position, the angled edge 40 of the hook section 22engages the second end 28 of the latch 26. This engagement may becorresponding angles such that the angled edge 40 and second end 28 forma flat connection. The first engagement feature 30 and second engagementfeature 44 may be a notch and groove, a corresponding angle, or similarsuch that the first engagement feature 30 and the second engagementfeature 44 are prevented from freely disengaging.

FIG. 5 illustrates a strap and connector assembly 82, according toembodiments of the present disclosure. In the strap and connectorassembly 82, two swivel connectors 14A are coupled to a strap 12. Insome embodiments, the connector assembly further comprises an adjustmentbuckle 84.

As illustrated, the windows 60, 70 of each connector 14A allow for thestrap 12 to stay flat and not bunch up. It is contemplated the firstportion 12A of the strap 12 and the second portion 12B of the strap 12may be coupled after passing through the first window 60. Alternatively,it is contemplated the first portion 12A of the strap 12 or the secondportion 12B of the strap may be coupled to the adjustment buckle 84. Inthis regard, adjusting a length of the first portion 12A of the strap 12between a swivel connector 14A and the adjustment buckle 84 may adjustthe overall length of the strap and connector assembly between the twoswivel connectors 14A. The strap 12 may be routed through one or both ofthe swivel connectors 14A as described with respect to FIG. 4, above.

FIG. 6 shows an embodiment of a swivel connector 14B with a body 56B.Unless otherwise noted, the swivel connector 14B of FIG. 6 has featuresthat are the same as, or similar to, other embodiments of swivelconnectors described throughout the present disclosure and operates inthe same or similar manner. For example, the connector 14B includesfeatures that are the same as, or similar to, the features of the swivelconnector 14A described in conjunction with FIGS. 2-5 and/or the swivelconnector 14C described in conjunction with FIG. 7. In this regard,embodiments directed to swivel connector 14A of FIGS. 2-5 and/or theswivel connector 14C of FIG. 7 should be interpreted as being applicableto the swivel connector 14B of FIG. 6, and vice versa.

In this embodiment, the loops 58, 68 of the body 56B have rectangularcross sections. The body forms an approximately rectangular shape havingsides 64A, 64B, 74A, and 74B, a first end 66, and a second end 76. Forexample, the sides 64A, 64B and 74A, 74B may be spaced apart by thewindows 60, 70. By way of another example, the ends 66, 76 may beoppositely disposed on the body 56B, such that end 66 is on the firstloop 58 and end 76 is on the second loop 68. The first sides 64A, 64Band the second sides 74A, 74B are approximately equal in length, and thefirst end 66 and the second end 76 are approximately equal in length.Similarly, the first window 60 includes a first length and a firstwidth, and the second window 70 includes a second length and a secondwidth. For example, the first and second lengths may be approximatelyequal. By way of another example, the first and second widths may beapproximately equal. The first sides 64A, 64B and second sides 74A, 74Bmay be longer than, equal to, or shorter than the first end 66 andsecond end 76.

A crossmember 78 connects the first end 66 to the second end 76. Thecrossmember 78 may be equidistant between the first end 66 and thesecond end 76 or may be closer to one end. The first window 60 andsecond window 70 are formed by the body 56B and the crossmember 78.

The second end 76 optionally has a connection piece 50 having anaperture 54 to connect an axle 52. The connection piece 50 may be closerto one side 74A or 74B or may be centered between the two sides. Theswivel hook includes the same features as the swivel hook 18 discussedabove in conjunction with FIGS. 2-5.

FIG. 7 shows an embodiment of a swivel connector 14C with a body 56C.Unless otherwise noted, the swivel connector 14C of FIG. 7 has featuresthat are the same as, or similar to, other embodiments of swivelconnectors described throughout the present disclosure and operates inthe same or similar manner. In this regard, embodiments directed to theswivel connector 14A of FIGS. 2-5 and/or the swivel connector 14B ofFIG. 6 should be interpreted as being applicable to the swivel connector14C of FIG. 7, and vice versa.

In this embodiment, the body 56C is formed of a material that isgenerally cylindrical. The body 56C has a first end 66, sides 64A, 64B,a crossmember 78, and an arcuate end 80. For example, the sides 64A, 64Bmay be spaced apart by the windows 60, 70. By way of another example,the ends 66, 76 may be oppositely disposed on the body 56C, such thatend 66 is on the first loop 58 and arcuate end 80 is on the second loop68. The sides 64A and 64B connect to the first end 66 and to thecrossmember 78. The first end 66 and crossmember 78 are approximatelyequal in length. Additionally, or alternatively, the first side 64A andsecond side 64B are approximately equal in length. The first end 66,crossmember 78, and sides 64A and 64B are arranged to form a rectangularfirst window 60.

The arcuate side 80 begins at the points the crossmember 78 adjoins thesides 64A, 64B. The arcuate side 80, crossmember 78, and sides 64A, 64Bform an approximately semicircular or semi-elliptical shaped secondwindow 70.

Optionally, a connection piece 50 is positioned in the center of thearcuate side 80. The connection piece may also be positioned closer toone of the sides 64A or 64B.

A swivel hook 18 is attached to the connection piece 50. The swivel hook18 is optionally the same as discussed in conjunction with FIGS. 2-5.

Although not illustrated, it is contemplated the swivel connector 14B inFIG. 6 and/or the swivel connector 14C of FIG. 7 may be similarlyincluded in the strap and connector assembly 82 as illustrated in FIG.5. Therefore, the description should only be regarded as anillustration, and should not be regarded as limiting,

It is noted the swivel hook 18 may be considered a latching device, forpurposes of the present disclosure. Although not illustrated, it iscontemplated the arrangement of the windows 60, 70 may be usable withother latching devices in addition to or instead of the swivel hook 18.For example, the latching device may include, but is not limited to, asnap, a buckle, a clasp, a tuck lock, turn lock, or other latchingdevice operable to engage a corresponding component (e.g., a loop orother receptacle for the latching device) on another portion of asecondary article (e.g., bag, tote, purse, backpack, clothing, fabriccover (e.g., installed on a piece of furniture or vehicle seat), or thelike). For example, the crossmember 78 may be a cross bar that includesa prong operable to engage an eyelet or aperture within the strap 12,securing the strap 12 to the swivel connector 14A, 14B, 14C in additionto the passing of the strap through the windows 60, 70. Alternatively orin addition, in embodiments the swivel hook 18 may not require the axle52, and may include couple to the body 56A, 56B, 56C via a strap, ametal bracket, a ball and a hitch, a notch and a groove, a button, orother rotatable connection method. Therefore, the description shouldonly be regarded as an illustration, and should not be regarded aslimiting,

In this regard, the present disclosure is directed to an improvedsolution for aligning a swivel hook 18 of a swivel connector 14A, 14B,14C and a strap 12, preventing the bunching of the strap 12 within theswivel connector 14A, 14B, 14C. The addition of a second loop (e.g.,loop 58) and second window (e.g., window 60) to the typical single loopand swivel hook assembly (e.g., as illustrated in FIG. 1) is understoodto be novel and non-obvious against prior art (e.g., as illustrated inFIG. 1) as it allows the strap 12 to stay aligned with the swivel hook18 within the loops 58, 68 (and windows 60, 70) regardless of therotational displacement of the body 56A, 56B, 56C of the swivelconnector 14A, 14B, 14C about the longitudinal axis 16 relative to theswivel hook 18. In one example, where the swivel connector 14A, 14B, 14Cis coupled to a loop or other component installed on a bag or othersecondary device via the swivel hook 18, misalignment of the strap 12relative to the bag from adjustment of the strap 12 or bag by a userwill not cause the strap 12 to bunch along a side 64A, 64B, 74A, 74B ofthe loops 58, 68 (and windows 60, 70). Instead, the misalignment will betransferred through the swivel connector 14A, 14B, 14C, causing theswivel hook 18 to realign on the loop or other component installed onthe bag or other secondary device while allowing the strap 12 to remainaligned within the swivel connector 14A, 14B, 14C to the swivel hook 18.

While various embodiments of the system have been described in detail,it is apparent that modifications and alterations of those embodimentswill occur to those skilled in the art. It is to be expressly understoodthat such modifications and alterations are within the scope and spiritof the present disclosure. Further, it is to be understood that thephraseology and terminology used herein is for the purposes ofdescription and should not be regarded as limiting. The use of“including,” “comprising,” or “having” and variations thereof herein aremeant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof,as well as, additional items.

To provide additional background, context, and to further satisfy thewritten description requirements of 35 U.S.C. § 112, the followingreferences are incorporated by reference herein in their entireties:Canadian Patent No. CA2843095C; European Patent Publication EP0620375A1,European Patent Publication EP1692958A1; European Patent EP2140785B1,European Patent EP2713798B1; Japanese Patent Publication No.JP2011083460A; Taiwanese Patent Number TWI457087B, U.S. Pat. Nos.241,874, 435,880, 890,955, 940,738, 1,049,732, 2,193,291, 2,233,397,2,447,179, 2,613,981, 3,293,713, 3,977,049, 4,065,834, 4,074,401,4,123,012, 4,299,343, 4,501,027, 5,123,153, 5,127,137, 5,205,021,5,274,887, 2,285,555, 5,398,389, 5,860,769, 6,192,835, 6,192,835,6,196,931, 6,286,777, 7,000,263, 7,144,086, 7,490,389, 7,552,515,7,963,562, 8,113,399, 8,926,651, 8,931,437, 8,931,437, 9,151,568,9,155,360, 9,248,324, 9,433,259, 9,557,138, 9,743,717, 9,560,898,9,915,499, 10,039,349, 10,188,177, 10,531,710, 10,602,807, 10,617,179,10,654,442, 10,994,694, U.S. Design Patent D354,676, U.S. Design PatentD466,163, U.S. Design Patent D483,294, U.S. Design Patent D507,509, U.S.Design Patent D508,218, U.S. Design Patent D510,297, U.S. Design PatentD511,595, U.S. Design Patent D564,409, U.S. Design Patent D576,077, U.S.Design Patent D577,283, U.S. Design Patent D619,497, U.S. Design PatentD619,498, U.S. Design Patent D649,907, U.S. Design Patent D661,573, U.S.Design Patent D662,400, U.S. Design Patent D668,580, U.S. Design PatentD686,059, U.S. Design Patent D731,921, U.S. Design Patent D741,148, U.S.Design Patent D742,722, U.S. Design Patent D763,666, U.S. Design PatentD782,287, U.S. Design Patent D808,251, U.S. Design Patent D823,717, U.S.Design Patent D830,226, U.S. Design Patent D830,948, U.S. Design PatentD839,084, U.S. Design Patent D839,719, U.S. Design Patent D840,869, U.S.Design Patent D840,870, U.S. Design Patent D842,078, U.S. Design PatentD843,887, U.S. Design Patent D847,016, U.S. Design Patent D868,625, U.S.Design Patent D877,280, U.S. Design Patent D911,153, U.S. Design PatentD911,823, U.S. Design Patent D911,824, U.S. Design Patent D928,032, U.S.Pat. App. Pub. 2006/0208016, U.S. Pat. App. Pub. 2007/0152007, U.S. Pat.App. Pub. 2010/0115736, U.S. Pat. App. Pub. 2011/0006088, U.S. Pat. App.Pub. 2013/0333119, U.S. Pat. App. Pub. 2014/0018807, U.S. Pat. App. Pub.2014/0263489, and U.S. Pat. App. Pub. 2014/0298630.

What is claimed is:
 1. A swivel connector for a strap, comprising: aswivel hook having a hook section and a hook body with a latch, thelatch being pivotably attached to the hook section via a pin; an axleextending from the swivel hook and including a flange spaced from theswivel hook; a body rotatably connected to the swivel hook by the axle,the body comprising: a first loop including a first window; a secondloop including a second window; and a crossmember separating the firstwindow and the second window, wherein the crossmember forms a firstportion of the first loop and a second portion of the second loop,wherein the first window and the second window are operable to receivethe strap and maintain an alignment between the strap and a longitudinalaxis of the swivel connector.
 2. The swivel connector of claim 1,wherein the crossmember forms a first portion of the first loop and asecond portion of the second loop, wherein the strap at least partiallywraps around the crossmember when inserted into the first loop and thesecond loop.
 3. The swivel connector of claim 2, wherein the axleextends through an aperture through an end of the second loop such thatthe flange is positioned within the second window, wherein the flangehas a flange diameter that is greater than an interior diameter of theaperture, wherein the axle is rotatably retained within the aperture. 4.The swivel connector of claim 3, wherein an aperture is positioned inthe end of the second loop at a location furthest spaced opposite thecrossmember across the second window.
 5. The swivel connector of claim3, wherein the swivel hook is rotatably engaged with the body.
 6. Theswivel connector of claim 1, wherein the crossmember is generally linearand is approximately perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of theswivel connector.
 7. The swivel connector of claim 6, wherein the axleis approximately concentrically aligned with the longitudinal axis. 8.The swivel connector of claim 1, wherein the first window and the secondwindow are each approximately oval-shaped, wherein the first windowincludes a first major axis and a first minor axis, wherein the secondwindow includes a second major axis and a second minor, wherein thefirst minor axis and the second minor axis are approximately parallel.9. The swivel connector of claim 8, wherein the longitudinal axis, thefirst minor axis of the first window, and the second minor axis of thesecond window are approximately concentrically aligned.
 10. The swivelconnector of claim 8, wherein the first length of the first window andthe second length of the second window are approximately equal, whereinthe first major axis and the second major axis are approximatelyparallel.
 11. The swivel connector of claim 1, wherein the first windowand the second window are each approximately rectangular, wherein thefirst window includes a first length and a first width, and wherein thesecond window includes a second length and a second width.
 12. Theswivel connector of claim 11, wherein the first length of the firstwindow and the second length of the second window are approximatelyequal.
 13. The swivel connector of claim 1, wherein the first window isapproximately rectangular, wherein the second window is approximatelysemi-elliptical.
 14. The swivel connector of claim 1, wherein athickness or diameter of the first loop is approximately the same as athickness of diameter of the second loop.
 15. The swivel connector ofclaim 1, further comprising: a connection piece substantially centeredaround the longitudinal axis on an end of the second loop, theconnection piece extending above and below a plane defined by the secondloop; and a bore extending through the connection piece, the boreextending along the longitudinal axis approximately perpendicular to thecrossmember.
 16. The swivel connector of claim 1, wherein: a base of thehook body has a recess and a first aperture extending through the base;and the hook section is fixed to the axle, the hook section having aninsert positioned in the recess of the hook body and with a secondaperture aligned with the first aperture of the base such that the hookbody is pivotable relative to the hook section, the hook sectionextending away from the axle and having an approximately 180 degreebend, wherein the latch has a first closed position in which an end ofthe latch is positioned proximate to an end of the hook section, andwherein the latch has a second open position in which the end of thelatch is spaced from the end of the hook section.
 17. A strap andconnector assembly, comprising: a strap; and at least one swivelconnector, comprising: a swivel hook having a hook section and a hookbody with a latch, the latch being pivotably attached to the hooksection; an axle extending from the swivel hook and including a flangespaced from the swivel hook; a body rotatably connected to the swivelhook by the axle, the body comprising: a first loop including a firstwindow with a first entrance and a first exit; a second loop including asecond window with a second entrance and a second exit; and acrossmember separating the first window and the second window, whereinthe crossmember forms a first portion of the first loop and a secondportion of the second loop, wherein the first window and the secondwindow are operable to receive the strap and maintain an alignmentbetween the strap and a longitudinal axis of the swivel connector. 18.The assembly of claim 17, wherein the second loop is operable to receivethe strap through the second entrance of the second window, wherein thesecond loop is operable to provide the strap through the second exit ofthe second window opposite the second entrance, and wherein the strap isat least partially wrapped around the crossmember and extends inapproximately the same direction before entering the second entrance ofthe second window and after exiting the second exit of the secondwindow.
 19. The assembly of claim 18, wherein the strap forms a strapbend around the crossmember, wherein the strap bend defines a firstportion of the strap on a first side of the strap bend which extendsfrom the second entrance of the second window and a second portion ofthe strap on a second side of the strap bend which extends from thesecond exit of the second window, wherein the first loop is operable toreceive the first portion of the strap through the first entrance of thefirst window, wherein the first loop is operable to provide the firstportion of the strap through the first exit of the first window oppositethe first entrance, wherein a first surface of the first portion of thestrap is proximate to a second surface of the second portion of thestrap after the first portion of the strap is provided through the firstexit of the first window, wherein the first portion of the strap and thesecond portion of the strap extends in the same direction before thefirst portion of the strap enters the first entrance of the first windowand after the first portion of the strap exits the first exit of thefirst window.
 20. A swivel connector, comprising: a body with a firstloop and a second loop, the first loop connected to the second loop by acrossmember that is generally linear, the first loop having a firstwindow and the second loop having a second window separated from thefirst window by the crossmember, wherein an end of the second loop isapproximately parallel to the crossmember, wherein the crossmember formsa first portion of the first loop and a second portion of the secondloop, and wherein the first loop is substantially coplanar with thesecond loop; and a latching device coupled to the second loop, whereinthe first window and the second window are operable to receive a strapand maintain an alignment between the strap and a longitudinal axisdefined by the latching device, wherein the strap at least partiallywraps around the crossmember when inserted into the first loop and thesecond loop, wherein both ends of the strap extend in the same directionafter the strap at least partially wraps around the crossmember.